Former lawmaker to lead Georgia rural development efforts

Gov. Nathan Deal named former Georgia Rep. Amy Carter of Valdosta Wednesday to the newly created position of deputy commissioner for rural development.

Carter, currently executive director of stewardship and development for the Technical College System of Georgia, served more than a decade in the state House of Representatives before stepping down last year. She has a background in education, with more than 16 years of experience teaching at Lowndes HIgh School.

"Amy's experience working with students and her time in public service have given her an understanding of the needs facing our educational system," Deal said. "Her background will help her to improve education and workforce development in rural Georgia, two areas proven to be critical in generating significant investment and economic opportunities."

The fiscal 2018 mid-year budget includes $82,415 to fund the new deputy commissioner for rural development position inside the Georgia Department of Economic Development.